Uganda receives eight rhinos from South Africa to boost national conservation efforts
Following their arrival, the rhinos were transferred to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for mandatory quarantine, veterinary monitoring, and acclimatisation before joining the existing population.
Uganda has today received eight southern white rhinos from Munyawana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, a donation from African Parks aimed at strengthening the country’s ongoing rhino recovery programme.
The animals arrived at 2:30 a.m. through Entebbe International Airport and were officially received by the Director of Tourism Development, Dr. Basil Ajer, on behalf of the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
According to officials, the consignment includes four males and four females, a balanced mix intended to support long-term breeding, ensure genetic diversity, and accelerate population growth.
The reception was also witnessed by John Makombo, Commissioner for Biodiversity Management, representing the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, the Uganda Tourism Board, and UWA management.
Dr. Ajer hailed the arrival as a milestone that reaffirms Uganda’s credibility in global wildlife conservation.
“This donation is a strong vote of confidence in Uganda’s conservation systems and institutions. It reflects the trust our international partners have in our ability to protect endangered species and responsibly grow wildlife-based tourism,” he said.
He added that the translocation fits squarely within Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation and Management Strategy, which focuses on expanding rhino range, strengthening genetic diversity, and securing the species for future generations.
Makombo described the donation as a significant reinforcement to Uganda’s national rhino recovery programme.
“This is a major boost to our conservation efforts. Beyond conservation, this strengthens Uganda’s profile as a competitive nature-based tourism destination and a trusted partner in international wildlife conservation,” he noted. He emphasized that UWA will ensure maximum protection and a conducive environment for the rhinos to thrive.
Representing African Parks, Martine Rickelton, the Operations and Logistics Manager, said the organisation is committed to supporting rhino range states across the continent.
“Uganda has demonstrated strong leadership in rhino conservation and long-term planning. This donation supports Uganda’s ambition to re-establish rhinos across more protected areas. We are proud to partner with the Government of Uganda and UWA in this important conservation journey,” he said.
Following their arrival, the rhinos were transferred to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for mandatory quarantine, veterinary monitoring, and acclimatisation before joining the existing population.
With the addition of these eight animals, Uganda’s rhino population now stands at 59, all under active protection, marking a major boost to the country’s restoration efforts. Preparations are also underway to introduce rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park, and plans are being finalised to move some individuals to Ajai Wildlife Reserve as part of a phased national strategy to re-establish rhinos in their former habitats.
